Native American Style Soapstone Animals

Be inspired by the animal themed art in the exhibit, From Picasso to Magritte: European Masters from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts! Students will create a small soapstone sculpture in the style of a Native American Fetish. Class will meet for one four-hour session.

We will use soapstone to create carvings with hand tools. Students will learn to look at the stone and see shapes and forms that lead to the final sculpture. Expect to work hard.

No prior knowledge of carving is assumed. Instruction will use basic terminology, and all techniques will be demonstrated to the students as we introduce each tool. Wear working clothes and plan to get dusty! All stone and necessary tools will be provided.

Enrollment for each class is limited; registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Full payment must accompany registration; the Museum accepts cash, check, or credit card. Registered students will recieve a confirmation by email the week prior to the start of class, with details about class requirements, supplies, and museum procedures. Photographers are on duty at museum events to capture images for the museum's archives and publictions. If you prefer not to have pictures taken of yourself or family members, please notify the instructor.